SVC File Extension

What is SVC file?

Text files with SVC extension in Windows contain session information for WCF - Windows Communication Foundation. Single SVC file contains a @ServiceHost directive specific for WCF data processing that is run by Microsoft IIS. Services hosted on machines can be activated this way via incoming messages. SVC can be opened and edited in any text editor, but Microsoft IDEs are commonly used instead.

Directive attributes in SVC files - WCF Web Service File

@ServiceHost directive can have a single attribute - Service. Its value is the name of CLR service implementation (common language runtime), responsible for creating an instance on host dynamically for initial SVC query. Parameters can also refer to language in which the service is implemented, debug settings or source code path. Additionally, SVC files can contain inline service code. Any edits made to files require for it to be recompiled upon query.

‎When hosting service as IIS endpoints addresses are always relative to SVC service file path. For example, if base WCF service address has the following endpoint config:‎ http://localhost/Application/Service.svc in XML file: <endpoint address="point" />, then the http://localhost/Application/Service.svc/point address refers to given SVC service.

Programs which support SVC file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support SVC files. Files with SVC extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 04/05/2023

How to open file with SVC extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening SVC files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with SVC extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the Microsoft IIS

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports SVC files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select Microsoft IIS or one of the recommended programs (for example, Microsoft Visual Studio) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Microsoft IIS website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Microsoft IIS

If you already have Microsoft IIS installed on your systems and SVC files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. The reason that Microsoft IIS cannot handle files with SVC may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Microsoft IIS.

Step 3. Set the default application to open SVC files to Microsoft IIS

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate SVC files with latest version of Microsoft IIS you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the SVC file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Microsoft IIS is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open SVC files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the SVC file and select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with SVC extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the SVC file is complete and free of errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper SVC file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The SVC may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the SVC is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the scanner detected that the SVC file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the SVC file’s structure is intact

Did you receive the SVC file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. When downloading the file with SVC extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the WCF Web Service Format file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Microsoft IIS

If the systems has insufficient resources to open SVC files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with WCF Web Service Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle SVC files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the SVC file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on SVC file.